Combating coronavirus: Over 58 UAE studies seek to develop Covid-19 treatment, faster tests

One study has illustrated that Covid-19 is a virus transmitted by animals to humans.

More than 58 studies are being conducted in the UAE to understand the nature of Covid-19 and develop innovative treatments, as well as diagnostic devices and medical tools, a top official said.
Dr Alawi Al Sheikh, spokesperson for the advanced science sector, said: "These studies are looking into ways of simulating the spread of the disease and the movement of patients and the psychological and health impact of the virus on society."
Here are some of the key research that the UAE's scientific community is working on.
Exploring how the virus spreads
The Covid-19 genome sequencing conducted by the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) is one that will help scientists understand how the infection spreads, Dr Al Sheikh said.
"The (MBRU) study aims to fully sequence viral samples from 240 patients with Covid-19 across various age groups and at different points of this pandemic."
Studying factors that make some cases more critical
The spokesperson also highlighted how the joint efforts of a number of UAE research centres are seeking to shed light on the genetic factors that may be affecting the severity of infections among patients in the country.
Among these centres are the Khalifa University (KU), UAE University (UAEU), Sharjah University, and the health departments of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as well as the University of Western Australia and Al Ain Centre for Fertility.
"It is important to understand the impact of COVID-19 on people with chronic disease and smokers in order to develop precautionary plans to ensure their safety.
"Therefore, a team from UAE University will study factors that make some cases more critical than others to help reduce fatalities," said Dr Al Sheikh said.
How animals transmit virus to humans
One study has illustrated that Covid-19 is a virus transmitted by animals to humans.
Now, a team of specialists from KU is collaborating with UAEU and a number of global colleges - such as one in Florida and the Chinese Institute for Agricultural Sciences, Murdoch University, and University of Western Australia - to look into how an animal virus has been transmitted to humans.
Devices to speed up screenings
A team from KU is also working on devices that would accelerate screenings, requiring less time than internationally recognised PCR tests.
Cost-effective, 3D-printed artificial respirators
Some KU researchers have focused on creating a simple, cost-effective device for effective artificial respiration in emergencies.
The new device uses 3D printing techniques to meet the growing demand for artificial respirators.
"It can be further developed on a wider scope, which means that more can be produced at a lower cost to meet growing demand," Dr Al Sheikh said.